Counseling
Office Phone: (972) 429-3469
Email: Bridget.Horan@wylieisd.net
Hello Gator Family!
It is such a joy to serve the students, families, and staff at Groves Elementary as your school counselor! This year begins my 25th year in education and my 13th year as a school counselor. In addition to being a counselor, I have also taught first and second grade and worked in Student Services.
I graduated from Berkner High School in Richardson ISD where I was a member of the Mighty Ram Band and was the Drum Major. I earned my Bachelor's degree from Baylor University. Sic Em' Bears! College football season is one of my favorite times of year!
When I am not at school, I love traveling, checking places off my “bucket list”, listening to music, my cat, Hope, spending quality time with my family, especially my awesome two nieces and nephew!
I am passionate about helping students grow emotionally and socially as they progress through school & prepare for life. As the Groves counselor, I work with all staff and students. I deliver classroom guidance lessons to grades K-4, as well as conduct small groups and individual check-ins with students. Topics include conflict resolution, making and keeping friends, growth mindset, self-concept, grit, setting goals, coping skills, managing strong feelings, making good choices, and life changes (such as divorce, loss of a loved one, etc.).
How does a student see a school counselor?
- Self-referral
- Parent referral
- Administrative, teacher, or other staff referral
How can I support parents?
- Helping to handle social or emotional concerns you have about your child
- Family difficulties or concerns that affect your child at school
- Referrals for community resources (The list is below. Wylie ISD does not endorse or promote any of these agencies. Please call to see what is the best fit for your family.)
Are you interested in outside counseling for you or your child? Here is a link to a list with local counseling resources. Wylie ISD does not endorse or promote any of these agencies or organizations. Please contact them to see if they are a good fit for your family. https://tinyurl.com/2s692d96
What is the role of an Elementary School Counselor? - https://tinyurl.com/39mz85tv
I am here to answer questions or discuss any concerns regarding your child’s development or well-being, so please contact me anytime should the need arise. I am also the 504 coordinator and MENTOR program liaison for our campus.
It is my privilege to support you and your students at Groves Elementary! I look forward to partnering with you this year! Let’s make this year the very BEST!
DEGREES & CERTIFICATIONS:
Baylor University
Bachelor of Science in Education
Certified K-8 General, K-8 Reading
Amberton University
Masters of Art in School Counseling
Certified School Counselor
Resources for parents:
https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/topic-social-skills - Raising Kids Who Thrive
https://www.pbs.org/parents/learn-grow/all-ages/emotions-self-awareness - Helping your child understand and handle emotions
https://www.pbs.org/parents/learn-grow/age-6/character/responsibility - Encourage your child to become a responsible helper.
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/school-help-elementary.html - 10 Ways to Help Your Child Succeed in Elementary School
https://kidshealth.org/es/parents/school-help-elementary.html - Spanish version
https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/how-to-prepare-your-child-for-a-new-school - How to Prepare your Child for a New School
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MJt0z63PTc – Great tips for incoming Kindergarten parents/students.
Activities for children:
https://do2learn.com/games/feelingsgame/index.htm - The Feelings Game
https://pbskids.org/ - Games, videos, activity pages, and music.
https://nathanfriend.io/inspiral-web/ - Digital version of the traditional Spirograph tool.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9nE4RE8uiQ - Sesame Street Cookie Monster Meditation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEOcsfGPQqg - Five Finger Breathing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mZbzDOpylA - Belly Breathe with Elmo